Tennant speaks about becoming next 'Doctor'

New Doctor Who David Tennant has admitted that he feels "daunted" to be stepping into the iconic role.

The actor, who begins filming this week, is replacing Christopher Eccleston to become the Doctor's tenth incarnation.

"I thought it was exceptional," Tennant said of the first series. "As each week went on I thought it got better and better. And I don't mean to suggest for an instant that it was bad to begin with! It started so well, and was so sure of itself, and then it just seemed to grow on that, week on week."

Speaking to Doctor Who Magazine, Tennant revealed that he had already been getting acquainted with co-star Billie Piper, who plays the Doctor's assistant Rose Tyler. "Obviously I've been admiring her in the show," he said. "She's just great. Fantastic. Just absolutely perfect. Spunky and quick and sexy... just the ideal companion really. So I'm very very pleased that she's doing the whole series."

The second series of the show - due to air next Spring - will be preceded by a special episode this Christmas. "I just hope people like it," Tennant added. "I hope they stick with it and give it a chance. I know everyone loved Chris, and so did I, but hopefully I won't disappoint people!"